BOLTONéS brave battle to beat the drop has been dealt a major blow, with the FA upholding the ban on French defender Florent Laville.

Laville will play in Saturdayés clash with Southampton, but will be a frustrated spectator on the final day of the season when Bolton face Middlesbrough in what promises to be a crucial match.

Laville was sent off for receiving two yellow cards in the 2-2 draw with Arsenal, but despite manager Sam Allardyceés protestations the ban will stand as referee Andy DéUrso did not recommend the decision be reversed.

'Where's the justice?'

At the time, Allardyce said: éMy concern is over Laville being suspended for the last game. There are no reasons why referee Andy D'Urso shouldn't rescind his decision to send him off. Laville is facing a double punishment that he doesn't deserve.

"According to Sky statistics Laville only committed two fouls and it resulted in two yellow cards and a sending off. That can't be right. Where's the justice?"

Laville has been a revelation since signing on loan from Lyon during the transfer window, forming a rock solid defensive partnership with Gudni Bergsson.

And his suspension means that Allardyce will be forced to shuffle his pack for the final game, either bringing Ivan Campo back from the midfield to defence or drafting in a squad player to partner Bergsson.